Author Archives: breen

you’re safe in “the vault”

the vault is an awesome bank turned coffee shop in brighton heights. it’s a cleanly decorated space with tall ceilings and friendly people. the coffees and teas are wonderful [they make their chai from scratch] and the staff is knowledgable about the product. the food is good too- try the feta dip…mmm. just off of ohio river boulevard and route 65, it’s easy to get to. however, i recommend you go the long way and see some more of the northside.

the vault is located at 3619 California Avenue. hours are from 7am to 8pm, mon. through sat.

that’s amore…a trip to pino’s

recently i made a visit to pino’s mercato, the italian restaurant that could. in the sea of italian eateries that is pittsburgh’s bloomfield neighborhood, i have been searching for “the best.” everyone has a suggestion, but none of the nominees have wowwed me. when i went to pino’s something clicked. they offer really GOOD food. it’s not always like grandma used to make, but it goes beyond the traditional and brings character to the table. so, even though it sort of feels like a betrayal of pittsburgh tradition, i have to say that my favorite italian restaurant is in point breeze.

get on the bus!

perhaps you’ve noticed recently that the port authority seems to be stepping things up a bit. they’ve improved their advertising and purchased some new buses, and it’s paid off. ridership in 2005 increased significantly over previous years. however, there are lots of people in pittsburgh who don’t ride the bus. chances are you’re one of them. well, for those who are less than versed in PAT logistics, they’ve come out with a simple guide. they also offer a guide that shows you how to connect from downtown to other popular destinations. so, if you don’t already ride the bus, give it a try. it’s not as hard as you think.

DonnaLisa’s Fine Coffee & Teas

with the closing of la prima espresso on liberty avenue over the summer, downtown workers were sent scattering along sidewalks searching for a decent alternative. the obvious choice was starbucks, but for those of us seeking to support local business the search was not over. luckily for me there’s a coffee connoisseur in my office and he directed me to DonnaLisa’s. Located on the first floor of the union trust building [521 grant street], DL’s is a small shop offering quality products such as fair trade and organic coffees, and all natural snacks. i can’t say i’ve tried the coffee yet [i have it on good authority that it’s well worth it], but the chai definitely hits the spot. as an added bonus, i’m paying $0.27 less there than at starbucks. plus, they offer a 15% discount to wqed members and anyone can get a punch card- 14 drinks and you get one free. a tasty deal!

ronna lee’s vintage & vogue

i found ronna lee’s vintage & vogue in february’s pittsburgh magazine. you can find it both online and in a store front in indiana, pa. ronna lee loves vintage purses and her store offers a collection that spans the 20th century. she also sells vintage clothing and some new apparel. my understanding is that she’s got some very collectable items. so, if you like antique accessories, this is the place for you.